Why The Toronto Raptors Do The Deal 

This is a bold move for the Raptors. It’s not exactly the same as the move they made years ago to acquire Leonard, either. 

For starters, Leonard was younger than Butler. Moreover, the Raptors were better at the time. At this moment, they look more than a piece away from title contention. 

At the same time, make no mistake – this deal will make them a better team. Adding Butler to a team that’s already got plenty of length and playmaking would solidify Toronto’s identity. This would be an exceedingly tough two-way team. 

The Raptors would have some decisions to make following this deal. Fred VanVleet and Jakob Poeltl will both be free agents, and they won’t likely be able to afford both if they’re signing Butler.

NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jimmy Butler, Miami Heat & Toronto Raptors Updates

Whichever of the two they choose, this deal still makes them a better team. 

If history is any indication, it’s something they’d consider.